Determining immigration status could be a problematic and challenging process. United States immigration laws are complex and subject to frequent revision, and when delays or difficulties arise, help from agencies such as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will only take you so far.
For those reasons and more, it may be best to consult with a lawyer about determining immigration status in Aurora. A knowledgeable immigration attorney could assist with assessing the status of your application for an immigrant petition or visa or citizenship application. An Aurora determining immigration status lawyer could also help to demonstrate your qualifications in the petition and during the application process. En Español.
Obtaining an immigration visa—which enables the holder to obtain a green card identifying his or her ability to live and work as a lawful permanent resident—is usually initiated when a family member or employer files a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After USCIS receives the petition, they generally send a receipt with a 13-digit receipt number.
The receipt number is a unique code consisting of three letters and ten numbers, which can be used to track the application or petition. In order for an applicant or his or her Aurora attorney to determine the status of an immigration petition or visa application, it is essential to have the identifying number available.
Those who do not receive a receipt within a few weeks should contact USCIS or visit a USCIS field office with identifying information and copies of the application and supporting documentation. The nearest field office to Aurora is located in Chicago.
Applicants should be able to use the USCIS online systems for determining the status of an immigration petition or visa application using their specific receipt numbers. Online services include options for case inquiries and service requests.
Case inquiries include situations such as a case exceeding the average processing time, an applicant or petitioner failed to receive a notice, failed to receive a card by mail, or where a document is missing. The USCIS website has provisions for initiating inquiries and links to check average processing times, which make it easier to determine whether a delay is normal or may indicate lost or missing information. If a case seems to be taking longer than average, it may be necessary to schedule an appointment to follow up.
When immigration is sought on the grounds of a family connection, it is necessary to determine whether the applicant has a close enough relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. That relationship must then be documented according to USCIS rules.
Immigration based on employment status will usually require a job offer from an employer that has received approval from the U.S. Department of Labor. Then, the qualifications of the applicant must be evaluated to determine which category of visa is appropriate. A lawyer in Aurora who is knowledgeable about determining immigration status could help you with this kind of investigation.
Websites providing information from the U.S. Department of State and USCIS make it simple for petitioners and applicants to inquire about their immigration status. Unfortunately, though, the backlog of cases—not to mention the sheer size and associated lack of efficiency of the federal government—could make it difficult for most people to navigate through the legal system unless they are familiar with the process.
Many people determining immigration status in Aurora choose to work with a well-practiced lawyer to make the immigration process a little easier. A knowledgeable attorney who understands the procedures could not only evaluate a situation and determine the appropriate action but also advocate on behalf of the petitioner, sponsor or applicant to help resolve any difficulties. Call today to speak to a skilled Aurora determining immigration status lawyer about your situation.
